When Did Tom Petty Play Fenway?
Tom Petty, the legendary American musician, has left an indelible mark on the music industry with his unique sound and heartfelt lyrics. One of the most iconic venues where Petty performed was Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox. This article delves into the details of when Tom Petty played Fenway, offering a comprehensive look at his performances at this historic ballpark.
Tom Petty’s Fenway Performances
Tom Petty’s first performance at Fenway Park took place on July 4, 1989. This concert was part of his “Full Moon Tour,” which celebrated the 20th anniversary of his debut album, “Tommy John.” The show was a massive success, with Petty and his band, the Heartbreakers, delivering a high-energy performance that left the crowd in awe.
| Date | Event | Band Members |
|---|---|---|
| July 4, 1989 | Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Tom Petty, Mike Campbell, Benmont Tench, Howie Epstein, Ron Blair, Stan Lynch |
| August 6, 1999 | Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Tom Petty, Mike Campbell, Benmont Tench, Howie Epstein, Ron Blair, Stan Lynch |
| August 7, 1999 | Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Tom Petty, Mike Campbell, Benmont Tench, Howie Epstein, Ron Blair, Stan Lynch |
After a 10-year hiatus, Tom Petty returned to Fenway Park on August 6, 1999, as part of his “Echo” tour. The band played two shows on this date, and the atmosphere was electric. The setlist included classic hits like “Free Fallin'”, “Refugee”, and “I Won’t Back Down,” which the crowd sang along to with enthusiasm.
On August 7, 1999, the band performed their second Fenway show. The setlist was similar to the previous night, with the crowd once again showing their love for Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.
Tom Petty’s Legacy at Fenway Park
Tom Petty’s performances at Fenway Park are a testament to his enduring popularity and the band’s ability to captivate audiences. The energy and passion that filled the ballpark during these shows are still remembered by fans to this day. Here are some key highlights of his Fenway performances:
- July 4, 1989: The band performed a high-energy set that included hits like “American Girl” and “Don’t Come Around Here No More.” The crowd was treated to a special appearance by Bob Dylan, who joined Petty on stage for a rendition of “I Shall Be Released.”
- August 6, 1999: The band played a two-hour set that featured a mix of hits and deep cuts. The crowd was on their feet throughout the show, singing along to classics like “The Waiting” and “You Got Lucky.”
- August 7, 1999: The second show was another memorable performance, with the band delivering a powerful set that included songs like “Runnin’ Down a Dream” and “Learning to Fly.”
Tom Petty’s Fenway performances were not just about the music; they were about the connection between the artist and the audience. The band’s ability to engage with the crowd and create a sense of community made these shows truly special.
Tom Petty’s Final Fenway Performance
On July 15, 2017, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers returned to Fenway Park for what would be Petty’s final performance at the iconic ballpark. The show was part of their “Hollywood Vampires” tour, which featured Petty, Joe Walsh, and Alice Cooper. The band played a setlist that included hits from all three artists, and the crowd was on their feet throughout the night.
Tom Petty’s final Fenway performance was a fitting end
